Latest news Brazil's police investigate fraud in vending machines

Police in Rio de Janeiro are investigating large-scale fraud involving so-called grab-and-go vending machines.

Investigations have revealed that many of these toy vending machines in the Brazilian metropolis have been manipulated to the detriment of users, according to a statement on Wednesday (local time). Criminal organizations could also be behind this. Several of the machines were confiscated during searches.

Plush toys can be pulled out of the coin-operated machines with a claw. According to the investigations, however, the machines were programmed in such a way that only a certain number of attempts would lead to success. Consumers were deceived in a fraudulent manner: they were led to believe that success depended solely on their skill - but in fact it was a matter of luck.

Possible violations of gambling laws

The investigation into "Operation Light Hands" began back in May after pirated soft toys and games were discovered in vending machines in several shopping centers in Rio. Even then, the police confiscated several of the machines and had them examined by technicians.

According to media reports, the investigators are targeting two companies that dominate the market for soft toy vending machines in the metropolis of millions on Sugarloaf Mountain. This also involves possible money laundering and violations of gambling laws.

SDA